Adjuvant blend for enhancing efficacy of pesticides

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a homogenous adjuvant blend for use in spray carriers containing herbicides. The homogenous adjuvant blend includes a nitrogen fertilizer, a pH adjuster, modified vegetable oil, and a blend of nonionic surfactants having high, intermediate, and low hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB).

[0001] This invention relates to a homogenous adjuvant blend for use inspray carriers containing herbicides, which are used to control weeds orother undesired vegetation. More specifically, the homogenous adjuvantblend of the invention includes a neutral blend of nitrogen fertilizer,a pH adjuster, modified vegetable oil, and a blend of nonionicsurfactants having high, intermediate, and low hydrophilic-lipophilicbalance (HLB).

BACKGROUND

[0002] Herbicides used in controlling weeds or undesired vegetation inagriculture may be applied by postemergence spraying of a herbicide onthe crop. The spray carrier for the herbicide is usually a water-basedadjuvant mixture containing an effective amount of known herbicide.Adjuvants are commonly added to herbicidal spray mixtures to enhancepostemergence weed control and/or to reduce spray drift during herbicideapplications.

[0003] Postemergence weed control applications are enhanced when thespray containing the herbicide is retained on the weed surface. Toobtain sufficient retention of the herbicide on the weed surface, many“sticker” compositions or agents, including methylated vegetable oils ormineral based oils and surface active agents (surfactants), are used asadjuvants. These adjuvants act to improve adherence of the herbicide onweeds, help retain droplets of the spray solution on the plant, andimprove penetration of the herbicide into the plant.

[0004] In addition to spray retention by the weed, other additives inthe form of liquid nitrogen based fertilizer solutions have been found,for example, to enhance the control of wild oats by herbicides such asbarban. Miller et al., Weed Science, 1978, Vol. 4, pp. 344-348. Recentlysurfactants have been combined with liquid fertilizers (usually 28%nitrogen, comprising a mixture of about 50% ammonium nitrate and about50% urea). The results however are variable depending on surfactantsused and nitrogen fertilizer employed. It was found that certain saltsand surfactants influence nicosulfuron herbicide activity. Nalewaja etal., Weed Technology, 1995, Vol. 9, pp. 587-593.

[0005] Some acidic additives have previously been used which aredesigned to lower pH and enhance the acidity of the spray carrier waterformulation, which was believed to both benefit herbicide adsorption andalso to prevent alkaline hydrolysis of certain insecticides. Acids andbuffering agents are sometimes also used to reduce antagonism fromalkaline salts found in the spray carrier water.

[0006] It has been noted that adjuvants differ greatly in herbicideenhancement depending on the specific surfactant and the herbicide used.In some cases, adjuvant can result in decreased performance. Halloway,4th International Symposium on Adjuvants for Agrochemicals, 1995, FR. &Bulletin, No. 193.

[0007] Adjuvants which are a three component system including analkaline amine pH regulator, a non-ionic surfactant, and a neutralammonium salt, such as ammonium nitrate, ammonium chloride, and ammoniumsulfate, are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,658,855. All three componentswere required to provide the desired phytotoxicity.

[0008] One concern over the use of adjuvants is not only in its abilityto enhance herbicide efficacy but in its ability to maintain productstability. Many adjuvants may be blended with herbicides and water thatare available at the site of blending. In some cases, the availableblending water may contain minerals or other substances that result information of precipitates and general instability of the composition.

SUMMARY

[0009] The present invention relates to homogenous adjuvant blends foruse in a spray carrier of postemergence herbicides applied as an aqueousspray solution to areas infested with undesired weeds or plants tocontrol the same. The adjuvant compositions of the present invention arestable and act synergistically at low rates to increase spray retention,prevent pesticide antagonism from salts in spray water, and providelipophilic and hydrophilic environments in the spray deposits thatenhance leaf penetration and efficiacy of herbicides. The adjuvant ofthe present invention is provided as a single stable formulation thatreduces the need to add separate components to a spray tank mix.

[0010] The adjuvant of the present invention is a multi-componentcomposition that includes a neutral blend of nitrogen fertilizers,modified vegetable oil, a pH adjuster which is the base for adjustingthe pH to the alkaline range, and a blend of high, intermediate, and lowhydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) nonionic surfactants.

[0011] Nitrogen fertilizers include nitrogen fertilizers such asammonium nitrate, urea, ammonium chloride, ammonium nitrate-ureafertilizer solutions, ammonium sulfate, and mixtures thereof. In animportant aspect of the invention, the nitrogen fertilizer ranges fromabout 30 to about 45 percent by weight of the concentrate adjuvantcomposition. The preferred nitrogen fertilizer is ammonium nitrate-ureafertilizer where the percent of nitrogen is about 2 percent to about 34percent, preferably about 28 percent.

[0012] The second component of the homogenous adjuvant blend of thepresent invention is a pH adjuster. The pH adjuster of the invention iseffective for providing an alkaline pH of above about 7 up to about 10for the final spray solution that is applied to the plants. The pHadjuster may be organic and/or inorganic. Examples of of pH adjustersinclude triethanolamine, primary amino alcohols, ammonium hydroxide andmixtures thereof. In an important aspect of the invention, the pHadjuster component is about 0.1 weight percent to about 20 weightpercent of the adjuvant composition, preferably about 10 percent byweight of the adjuvant composition.

[0013] The third component of the homogenous adjuvant blend is modifiedvegetable oil. The modified vegetable oil may be selected from a groupincluding methylated, ethylated, and butylated seed oils from all majorcrops. In an important aspect of the invention, the preferred modifiedvegetable oil is methylated canola oil. The modified vegetable oil ofthe composition is about 5 weight percent to about 80 weight percent byweight of the adjuvant composition, and preferably is about 20 percentby weight of the adjuvant composition.

[0014] The next components of the homogenous adjuvant blend are twononionic surfactants. In an important aspect of the invention, thenonionic surfactants are block copolymers. One of the block copolymersurfactants has a high HLB above about 14 and the other nonionic blockcopolymer surfactant has a HLB of 10 or less. In an important aspect,the high HLB nonionic surfactant has a HLB of above about 14 to about18. The low HLB nonionic surfactant has a HLB of above about 1 to about10. Each block copolymer surfactant component is about 1 to about 20weight percent of the adjuvant composition, preferably about 1 to about10 weight percent of the adjuvant composition, and more preferably isabout 6 percent by weight of the adjuvant composition. Block copolymersuseful in the present invention include copolymers of propylene oxideand ethylene oxide.

[0015] The adjuvant composition further includes at least twointermediate HLB nonionic surfactants. The intermediate nonionicsurfactant may be a nonionic secondary alcohol ethoxylate surfactanthaving intermediate HLB values above about 10 to about 14. Eachsecondary alcohol ethoxylate surfactant is about 3 to about 33 weightpercent of the adjuvant composition.

[0016] In another aspect, about 1 percent of the homogenous adjuvantblend of the present invention is blended with water and with aneffective amount of herbicide to provide a postemergence herbicidalspray composition, which is applied for weed control purposes. In thisaspect of the invention, the herbicidal spray composition includes about95 to 99 percent water, about 0.001 to about 4 percent herbicide, andabout 1 percent of the adjuvant of the present invention, based on theweight of the herbicidal spray composition. The herbicide is customarilyadded to the water at the recommended label amount; for example,herbicide in an amount from about 0.1 to about 4 ounces per acre of theherbicide active ingredients is a typical application rate.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The homogenous adjuvant blend of the present invention is amulti-component mixture including a neutral nitrogen fertilizer, pHadjuster, modified vegetable oil, two high molecular weight nonionicblock copolymer surfactants (average molecular weight between 1,000 and10,000), and two nonionic secondary alcohol ethoxylate surfactants. Thepercentage of each ingredient is blended to provide a homogenous andstable formulation. As used herein a “homogenous and stable” formulationmeans that all components of the adjuvant composition when mixedtogether form a clear, continuous blend that does not separate duringstorage at temperatures between 32° F. and 122° F. for at least about180 days.

[0018] In an important aspect of the invention, the homogenous adjuvantblend increases the efficacy of certain herbicides. The ingredients,acting synergistically, produce a low application rate formulation. Inpractice, similar ingredients are added to the spray mixture separately,at much higher rates. Using the adjuvant blend components in one sprayformulation, at a rate of about 1% of the spray mixture volume, providesa convenient and time-saving combination for farmers. The presentinvention increases spray retention, prevents pesticide antagonism fromsalts in the spray water, and enhances leaf penetration by providing alipophilic and hydrophilic environment.

[0019] Nitrogen Fertilizer

[0020] In an important aspect of the invention, the nitrogen fertilizerranges from about 30 to about 45 percent by weight of the adjuvantconcentrate composition. Nitrogen fertilizers include nitrogenfertilizers such as ammonium nitrate, urea, ammonium chloride, ammoniumnitrate-urea fertilizer solutions, ammonium sulfate, and mixturesthereof. The preferred nitrogen fertilizer is ammonium nitrate-ureafertilizer where the percent of nitrogen is about 2 percent to about 34percent, preferably about 28 percent. Ammonium nitrate-urea liquidfertilizer is preferred because: 1) it is effective for increasingefficacy of many postemergence herbicides when it is applied togetherwith oils and surfactants; and 2) in comparison to the other nitrogenfertilizers, it is the most compatible compound when in a blend withmodified vegetable oil, pH adjuster, and nonionic surfactants.

[0021] pH Adjuster

[0022] In an important aspect of the invention, the pH adjuster of theinvention provides an alkaline pH of the final spray solution of aboveabout 7 up to about 10, which is effective to increase solubility of theherbicide active ingredient. This is particularly important when usedwith herbicides from the sulfonylurea group (e.g., foramsulfuron,nicosulfuron, rimulfuron, primisulfuron).

[0023] Alkaline compounds are especially important in the presentinvention. Examples of pH adjusters include ammonium hydroxide,triethanolamine, primary amino alcohols (e.g., 2-amino-1-butanol,2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol,2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol,2-amino-2-methyl-1-propa nol,2-dimethylamino-2-methyl-1-propanol, 2-amino-2-ethyl-1,3-propanediol,tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, 2-dimethylamino-2-methyl-1-propanol),and mixtures thereof. The pH adjuster component should be about 0.1 toabout 20 percent by weight of the adjuvant composition, and in animportant aspect preferably is an organic pH adjuster at about 10percent by weight of the adjuvant composition.

[0024] Modified Vegetable Oil

[0025] The adjuvant composition of the present invention includesmodified vegetable oil from about 5 to about 80 percent by weight of theadjuvant composition, preferably about 20 percent by weight of theadjuvant composition. The modified vegetable oil is especially importantin the present invention and may be selected from a group includingmethylated, ethylated, and butylated seed oils from all major crops.Modified methylated, ethylated, and butylated vegetable oils in generalincrease efficacy of many herbicides more than petroleum or non-modifiedvegetable oils. Modified vegetable oils mainly increase the herbicidepenetration and are especially effective with many herbicides when theyare applied in mixtures with nitrogen fertilizers (e.g., with liquidammonium nitrate-urea fertilizer).

[0026] Nonionic Block Copolymer Surfactants

[0027] In an important aspect of the invention, the adjuvant compositionincludes two nonionic block copolymer surfactants, the first having ahigh HLB (Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance) broadly above about 14 toabout 18, while the other has a low HLB broadly above 1 to about 10.Each block copolymer surfactant is about 1 to about 20 percent by weightof the adjuvant composition, and preferably each block copolymersurfactant is about 6 percent by weight of the adjuvant composition.

[0028] High HLB indicates that a surfactant molecule is relatively morewater than oil soluble. One system of obtaining HLB is by dividing thepercentage of the water soluble portion of the surfactant molecule by 5.HLB values for surfactants are usually provided by the surfactantsupplier and are also available from McCutcheon's Emulsifiers &Detergents, McCutcheon Division, McCutcheon Publishing Co., 175 RockRoad, Glen Rock, N.J. 07452. High HLBs of the present invention areconsidered hydrophilic. In an important aspect of the invention, certainwater soluble herbicides are enhanced more by high than low HLBsurfactants.

[0029] Examples of suitable block copolymer surfactants having a highHLB are Pluronics, block copolymers of propylene oxide and ethyleneoxide, products of BASF Corp., (L64, HLB 15; L84, HLB 14; P85, HLB 16,P104, HLB 13; P105, HLB 15). Examples of suitable non-ionic surfactantshaving a low HLB are Pluronics, block copolymers of propylene oxide andethylene oxide, products of BASF Corp., (L62, HLB 7; L92, HLB 6; P123,HLB 8).

[0030] Nonionic Secondary Ethoxylate Alcohol Surfactants

[0031] In another aspect of the invention, the adjuvant compositioninclude at least two additional nonionic surfactants. The additionalnonionic surfactants may be secondary alcohol ethoxylate surfactantshaving a HLB of above about 10 to about 14. In this aspect of theinvention, the adjuvant composition includes additional nonionicsurfactants in about 3 to about 33 weight percent by weight of theadjuvant composition.

[0032] In an important aspect of this invention, the secondary alcoholethoxylate surfactants, in addition to the two block copolymersurfactants, are effective for providing enhanced adjuvant stability fora storage time of from 1 to 180 days at a temperature range between 32°F. and 122° F.

[0033] Examples of suitable secondary alcohol ethoxylate surfactantshaving an intermediate HLB are Tergitols, (15-S-5, HLB 10.5; 15-S-9, HLB13.3), products of Union Carbide, Corp.

[0034] Application of Homogenous Adjuvant Blend

[0035] The homogenous adjuvant blend is customarily formulated and soldin two and one half (2½) gallon or larger containers. The adjuvant blendis used to make up the spray mixture, which also includes spray water(about 95% to about 99%) and a herbicidally effective amount of apostemergence herbicide, customarily 2% or less by weight of the aqueousspray mixture. The herbicide is customarily added to the water at therecommended label amount; for example, in an amount effective forproviding an application rate of from about 0.1 to about 4 ounces peracre of the herbicide active ingredient. In this aspect of theinvention, the spray applied to the plants is typically from about 0.5to 2 weight percent adjuvant, preferably 1 weight percent, from about0.001 to about 4 weight percent, preferably about 0.001 to about 2weight percent herbicide, with the remainder of the spray being water.

[0036] The adjuvant blend of the present invention is effective for usewith herbicides that require addition of oil based adjuvants, nitrogenfertilizers or surfactants and for which solubility in water isincreased by high pH, which includes sulfonylurea and weak acidherbicides. The modified vegetable oil, surfactants and nitrogenfertilizer of the present invention act to improve spray retention andherbicide absorption by weeds and the high pH maintains the herbicide ina more available chemical form for absorption.

[0037] Preferably, the herbicides employed in this invention areselected from the group consisting of:

[0038] Nicosulfuron (sold under the tradename Accent) which is thecompound [[[[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl) amino]carbonyl]amino]sulfonyl-N,N-dimethyl-3-pyridine carboxy amide;

[0039] Rimsulfuron (sold under the trade name Matrix)which is thecompound N-[[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl) amino]carbonyl]-3-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-pyridinesulfonamide);

[0040] Imazethapyr (sold under the trade name Pursuit),2-[4,5-dihydro-4-methyl-4-(1-methylethyl)-5-oxo-1H-imidazol-2-yl]-5-ethyl-3-pyridinecarboxylic acid;

[0041] Primisulfuron (sold under the trade name Beacon),2-[[[[[4,6-bis(difluoromethoxy)-2-pyrimidinyl]amino]carbonyl]amino]sulfonyl]benzoic acid;

[0042] Foramsulfuron,2-[[[[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl)amino]carbonyl]amino]sulfonyl]-4-(formylamino)-N,N-dimeth ylbenzamide;

[0043] Mesotrione,(sold under the trade name Callisto),2-[4-(methylsulfonyl)-2-nitrobenzoyl-1,3-cyclohexanedione;

[0044] Quizalofop,(sold under the trade name Assure II),2-[4-[(6-chloro-2-quinoxalinyl)oxy]phenoxy]propanoic acid;

[0045] Clethodim,(sold under the trade name Select),(E,E)-2-[1-[[(3-chloro-2-propenyl)oxy]imino]propyl]-5-[2-(ethylthio)propyl]-3-hyroxy-2-cyclohexen-1-on;

[0046] Flucarbazone (sold under the trade name Everest),4,5-dihydro-3-methoxy-4-methyl-5-oxo-N-[[2-(trifluoromethoxy)phen

[0047] Atrazine (sold under various trade names),6-chloro-N-ethyl-N′-(1-methylethyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine, andmixtures thereof.

[0048] In an important aspect, the invention provides postemergenceherbicidal aqueous spray compositions that include:

[0049] (A) a nitrogen fertilizer in an amount of from about 30 to about45 percent by weight of the adjuvant blend;

[0050] (B) a pH adjuster in an amount effective for providing analkaline pH of above about 7 to about 10 of the final herbicidal aqueousspray mixture;

[0051] (C) a modified vegetable oil;

[0052] (D) a high hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) nonionicsurfactant having a HLB of above about 14;

[0053] (E) at least two intermediate nonionic sufactants having a HLB ofabout 10 to about 14;

[0054] (F) a low HLB nonionic surfactant having a HLB of about 10 orless;

[0055] (G) a herbicide; and

[0056] (H) additional water to make up the final spray solution.

EXAMPLES

[0057] The example homogenous adjuvant blend named as L-64.11.2.1(TABLE 1) can be prepared as follows. Methylated canola oil (20 parts),Pluronic L 92.RTM (6 parts), Pluronic L 64.RTM (6 parts), Tergitol15-S-5.RTM (8 parts), Tergitol 15-S-9.RTM (16 parts), andtriethanolamine (10 parts) are pre-stirred until the mixture ishomogenous; however, it still remains cloudy. Next the 28% N ammoniumnitrate-urea fertilizer (34 parts) is added gradually, while slowlystirring, until the formulation is homogenous, clear, withoutseparation. The formulation was stable for a storage time of from 1 toat least 180 days at temperature ranges between 32° F. and 122° F. TABLE1 Components of example homogenous adjuvant blend compositionL-64.11.2.1. Percent weight of final Component formulation FunctionMethylated canola oil 20.0 Increase herbicide activity. Pluronic L92.RTM, HLB 6.0 Increase herbicide  6.0 activity; compatibility agent.Pluronic L 64.RTM, HLB 6.0 Increase herbicide 15.0 activity;compatibility agent. Tergitol 15-S-5.RTM, 8.0 Increase herbicide HLB10.5 activity; formulation compatibility agent. Tergitol 15-S-9.RTM,16.0 Increase herbicide HLB 13.3 activity; formulation compatibilityagent Triethanolamine 10.0 Stabilize final herbicidal spray mixture pHat above about 7 to about 10. 28% N liquid ammonium 34.0 Preventantagonism nitrate-urea fertilizer from spray carrier salts; increaseherbicide activity. TOTAL 100.0

[0058] Pluronic L 64.RTM and Pluronic L 92.RTM block copolymer nonionicsurfactants, both from BASF Corp.; Tergitol 15-S-5.RTM and Tergitol15-S-9.RTM secondary alcohol ethoxylate surfactants, both from UnionCarbide Corp.

[0059] The adjuvants Scoil.RTM, Quad 7.RTM, 28% N liquid fertilizer, andL-64.11.2.1 were added to water (volume per volume at concentrationshown in Table 2) with nicosulfuron (0.2 oz/A) to prepare the finalaqueous spray mixture applied at 8.5 gal/A on 3-4 leaf stage largecrabgrass. TABLE 2 includes the results of assessment made 3 WAT (weeksafter treatment). Visible injury rating is on a scale 0 to 100% with 0%representing no visible injury and 100% complete kill.

[0060] Nonionic surfactant Activator 90.RTM plus 28% N liquid fertilizerand methylated seed oil Scoil.RTM plus 28% N liquid fertilizer (as tankmixes) were much more effective in enhancing nicosulfuron efficacy thannonionic surfactant and methylated seed oil applied without 28% N.However, the homogenous, multicomponent adjuvant of present inventionL-64.11.2.1 provided the highest nicosulfuron efficacy. TABLE 2 Largecrabgrass control 3 WAT with nicosulfuron (0.2 oz/A) as influenced byadjuvants (greenhouse tests). % visible % fresh weight Adjuvant injuryreduction None 31 57 Activator 90.RTM 0.5% 39 64 Activator 90.RTM 0.5% +28% N 2% 53 74 Scoil.RTM 0.5% 50 70 Scoil.RTM 0.5% + 28% N 2% 78 85Scoil.RTM 1% 70 76 Scoil.RTM 1% + 28% N 2% 86 93 Quad 7.RTM 1% 90 88L-64.2.1 0.5% 94 89 L-64.2.1 0.75% 97 90 L-64.2.1 1% 95 92 LSD (0.05) 45

[0061] Activator 90.RTM is a nonionic surfactant of alkylpolyoxyethyleneethers and free fatty acids from Loveland Industries; Scoil.RTM ismethylated vegetable oil from AGSCO Inc.; Quad 7.RTM is basic blendadjuvant from AGSCO Inc.; 28% N is liquid ammonium nitrate-ureafertilizer with 28% nitrogen; L-64.11.2.1 is an experimental homogenousadjuvant which refers to the present invention consisting of methylatedcanola oil (20%), triethanolamine (10%), mixture of Pluronic L 64.RTMand Pluronic L 92.RTM block copolymer nonionic surfactants (6%+6%), bothfrom BASF Corp., mixture of Tergitol 15-S-5.RTM and Tergitol 15-S-9.RTMsecondary alcohol ethoxylate surfactants (8%+16%), both from UnionCarbide Corp., and ammonium nitrate-urea liquid nitrogen (28% N)fertilizer (34%).

[0062] The adjuvants Scoil.RTM, Quad 7.RTM, 28% N liquid fertilizer, andL-64.11.2.1 were added to water (volume per volume at concentrationshown in TABLE 3) with nicosulfuron (0.04 oz/A) to prepare the finalaqueous spray mixture applied at 8.5 gal/A on 3-leaf stage greenfoxtail. TABLE 3 includes the results of assessment made 2 WAT (weeksafter treatment).

[0063] Homogenous, multicomponent adjuvant of present inventionL-64.11.2.1 applied at concentration of 1% provided equal nicosulfuronefficacy as methylated seed oil Scoil.RTM at 2% plus 28% N liquidfertilizer at 4%. TABLE 3 Green foxtail control 2 WAT with nicosulfuron(0.04 oz/A) as influenced by adjuvants (greenhouse tests). Adjuvant %fresh weight reduction None 0 Scoil.RTM 0.5% 45 Scoil.RTM 1% 72Scoil.RTM 2% 76 Scoil.RTM 2% + 28% N 4% 82 Quad 7.RTM 1% 85 L-64.11.2.11% 84 LSD (0.05) 10

[0064] Scoil.RTM is methylated vegetable oil from AGSCO Inc.; Quad 7.RTMis a basic blend adjuvant from AGSCO Inc.; 28% N is liquid ammoniumnitrate-urea fertilizer with 28% nitrogen; L-64.11.2.1 is anexperimental homogenous adjuvant, which refers to the present inventionconsisting of methylated canola oil (20%), triethanolamine (10%),mixture of Pluronic L 64.RTM and Pluronic L 92.RTM block copolymernonionic surfactants (6%+6%), both from BASF Corp., mixture of Tergitol15-S-5.RTM and Tergitol 15-S-9.RTM secondary alcohol ethoxylatesurfactants (8%+16%), both from Union Carbide Corp., and ammoniumnitrate-urea liquid nitrogen (28% N)fertilizer (34%).

[0065] The results of three field tests on volunteer oat and wheatcontrol are shown in TABLES 4, 5, and 6.

[0066] The adjuvants Activator 90.RTM, Scoil.RTM, Prime Oil.RTM, Quad7.RTM, and L-64.11.2.1 were added to water (volume per volume atconcentration or ate per acre shown in TABLES 4, 5, and 6) withclethodim (0.25 oz/A), imazethapyr (0.25 oz/A) or quizalofop (0.25 oz/A)to prepare the final aqueous spray mixture applied at 8.5 gal/A to3-4-leaf stage wheat and oat. TABLES 4, 5, and 6 include the results ofassessment made 2 and 6 WAT (weeks after treatment).

[0067] Homogenous, multicomponent adjuvant of present inventionL-64.11.2.1 applied at concentration of 1% provided consistently equalor higher clethodim, imazethapyr, and quizalofop efficacy than thereference commercial adjuvants applied at recommended rates. TABLE 4Volunteer wheat and oat control 2 and 6 WAT with clethodim at 0.25 oz/Aas influenced by adjuvants, Fargo, ND, field experiment, 2001. 07/1208/03 Adjuvant Oat Wheat Oat Wheat Activator 90.RTM 0.5% 38 53 25 30Scoil.RTM 1% 86 86 86 90 Scoil.RTM 1.5 pt/A 86 85 89 96 Prime Oil.RTM 2pt/A 84 84 85 90 Quad 7.RTM 1% 83 81 78 85 L-64.11.2.1 1% 93 93 93 96L-64.11.2.1 1% 94 94 94 96 LSD (0.05) 7 6 14 12

[0068] Activator 90.RTM is a nonionic surfacant of alkylpolyoxyethyleneethers and free fatty acids from Loveland Industries. Scoil.RTM ismethylated vegetable oil from AGSCO Inc.; Prime Oil.RTM is petroleum oilfrom Agriliance; Quad 7.RTM is a basic blend adjuvant from AGSCO Inc.;L-64.11.2.1 is an experimental homogenous adjuvant, which refers topresent invention consisting of methylated canola oil (20%),triethanolamine (10%), mixture of Pluronic L 64.RTM and Pluronic L92.RTM block copolymer nonionic surfactants (6%+6%), both from BASFCorp., mixture of Tergitol 15-S-5.RTM and Tergitol 15-S-9.RTM secondaryalcohol ethoxylate surfactants (8%+16%), both from Union Carbide Corp.,and ammonium nitrate-urea liquid nitrogen (28% N) fertilizer (34%).TABLE 5 Volunteer wheat and oat control 2 and 6 WAT with imazethapyr at0.25 oz/A as influenced by adjuvants, Fargo, ND, field experiment, 2001.07/12 08/03 Adjuvant Oat Wheat Oat Wheat Activator 90.RTM 0.5% 75 78 7481 Scoil.RTM 1% 80 88 85 94 Scoil.RTM 1.5 pt/A 85 89 93 95 Prime Oil.RTM2 pt/A 79 85 75 91 Quad 7.RTM 1% 80 84 79 94 L-64.11.2.1 1% 81 85 85 93L-64.11.2.1 1% 88 90 91 95 LSD (0.05) 7 7 11 8

[0069] Activator 90.RTM is a nonionic surfacant of alkylpolyoxyethyleneethers and free fatty acids from Loveland Industries. Scoil.RTM ismethylated vegetable oil from AGSCO Inc.; Prime Oil.RTM is petroleum oilfrom Agriliance; Quad 7.RTM is a basic blend adjuvant from AGSCO Inc.;L-64.11.2.1 is an experimental homogenous adjuvant, which refers topresent invention consisting of methylated canola oil (20%),triethanolamine (10%), mixture of Pluronic L 64.RTM and Pluronic L92.RTM block copolymer nonionic surfactants (6%+6%), both from BASFCorp., mixture of Tergitol 15-S-5.RTM and Tergitol 15-S-9.RTM secondaryalcohol ethoxylate surfactants (8%+16%), both from Union Carbide Corp.,and ammonium nitrate-urea liquid nitrogen (28% N) fertilizer (34%).TABLE 6 Volunteer wheat and oat control 2 WAT with quizalofop at 0.25oz/A as influenced by adjuvants, Fargo, ND, field experiment, 2001.07/12 Adjuvant Oat Wheat Activator 90.RTM 0.5% 77 86 Scoil.RTM 1% 81 91Scoil.RTM 1.5 pt/A 80 91 Prime Oil.RTM 2 pt/A 84 94 Quad 7.RTM 1% 93 96L-64.11.2.1 1% 93 98 L-64.11.2.1 1% 95 97 LSD (0.05) 9 6

[0070] Activator 90.RTM is a nonionic surfacant of alkylpolyoxyethyleneethers and free fatty acids from Loveland Industries. Scoil.RTM ismethylated vegetable oil from AGSCO Inc.; Prime Oil.RTM is petroleum oilfrom Agriliance; Quad 7.RTM is a basic blend adjuvant from AGSCO Inc.;L-64.11.2.1 is an experimental homogenous adjuvant, which refers topresent invention consisting of methylated canola oil (20%),triethanolamine (10%), mixture of Pluronic L 64.RTM and Pluronic L92.RTM block copolymer nonionic surfactants (6%+6%), both from BASFCorp., mixture of Tergitol 15-S-5.RTM and Tergitol 15-S-9.RTM secondaryalcohol ethoxylate surfactants (8%+16%), both from Union Carbide Corp.,and ammonium nitrate-urea liquid nitrogen (28% N) fertilizer (34%).

[0071] The results of a field test on weed control with foramsulfuron incorn are shown in TABLE 7. The adjuvants Scoil.RTM, Quad 7.RTM, andL-64.11.2.1 were added to water (at concentration shown in TABLE 7) withthe foramsulfuron (0.75 and 1.25 oz/A) to prepare the final aqueousspray mixture applied at 8.5 gal/A.

[0072] Homogenous, multicomponent adjuvant of present inventionL-64.11.2.1 applied at 1% concentration was equally or more effectivethan the reference commercial adjuvants Scoil.RTM or Quad 7.RTM appliedat 1% concentration of total spray volume and without any visible corninjury. TABLE 7 Yellow foxtail and common cocklebur control 3 WAT withforansulfuron at 0.75 and 1.25 oz/A in corn as influenced by adjuvants,Casselton, ND, 2000. 06/27 Foramsulfuron Corn Yellow Common AdjuvantOz/A Injury foxtail cocklebur Scoil.RTM 1% 0.75 0 80 78 Quad 7.RTM 1%0.75 0 83 80 L-64.11.2.1 1% 0.75 0 85 84 Scoil.RTM 1% 1.25 0 88 76 Quad7.RTM 1% 1.25 0 88 86 L-64.11.2.1 1% 1.25 0 89 91 LSD (0.05) NS 8 6

[0073] Scoil.RTM is methylated vegetable oil from AGSCO Inc.; Quad 7.RTMis a basic blend adjuvant from AGSCO Inc.; L-64.11.2.1 is anexperimental homogenous adjuvant, which refers to present inventionconsisting of methylated canola oil (20%), triethanolamine (10%),mixture of Pluronic L 64.RTM and Pluronic L 92.RTM block copolymernonionic surfactants (6%+6%), both from BASF Corp., mixture of Tergitol15-S-5.RTM and Tergitol 15-S-9.RTM secondary alcohol ethoxylatesurfactants (8%+16%), both from Union Carbide Corp., and ammoniumnitrate-urea liquid nitrogen (28% N) fertilizer (34%).

[0074] The results of a field test on weed control with nicosulfuronplus rimsulfuron (Steadfast.RTM) in corn are shown in TABLE 8. Theadjuvants Activator 90.RTM, Scoil.RTM, Quad 7.RTM, and L-64.11.2.1 wereadded to water (at concentration shown in TABLE 8) with nicosulfuronplus rimsulfuron (0.2+0.1 oz active ingredient/A) to prepare the finalaqueous spray mixture applied at 8.5 gal/A.

[0075] Homogenous, multicomponent adjuvant of present inventionL-64.11.2.1 applied at 1% concentration and at 1.5 pt/A was equally ormore effective than the reference commercial adjuvants Activator 90.RTM,Scoil.RTM, Quad 7.RTM, and Prime Oil.RTM and without any visible corninjury. TABLE 8 Yellow foxtail and common cocklebur control 3 WAT withnicosulfuron plus rimsulfuron at 0.2 + 0.1 oz/A in corn as influenced byadjuvants, Casselton, ND, 2001. 06/27 Corn Yellow Common Adjuvant Injuryfoxtail cocklebur Activator 90.RTM 0.5% 0 65 41 Scoil.RTM 1% 0 69 64Scoil.RTM 1.5 pt/A 0 81 74 Prime Oil.RTM 2 pt/A 0 70 49 Quad 7.RTM 1% 078 53 L-64.11.2.1 1% 0 83 79 L-64.11.2.1 1.5 pt/A 0 89 79 LSD (0.05) NS10 17

[0076] Activator 90.RTM is a nonionic surfactant of alkylpolyoxyethyleneethers and free fatty acids from Loveland Industries. Scoil.RTM ismethylated vegetable oil from AGSCO Inc.; Prime Oil.RTM is petroleum oilfrom Agriliance; Quad 7.RTM is basic blend adjuvant from AGSCO Inc.;L-64.11.2.1 is an experimental homogenous adjuvant, which refers topresent invention consisting of methylated canola oil (20%),triethanolamine (10%), mixture of Pluronic L 64.RTM and Pluronic L92.RTM block copolymer nonionic surfactants (6%+6%), both from BASFCorp., mixture of Tergitol 15-S-5.TRM and Tergitol 15-S-9.TRM secondaryalcohol ethoxylate surfactants (8%+16%), both from Union Carbide Corp.,and ammonium nitrate-urea liquid nitrogen (28% N) fertilizer (34%).

[0077] The results of a field test on weed control with nicosulfuronplus rimsulfuron plus clopyralid plus flumetsulam (Accent Gold.RTM) incorn are shown in TABLE 9. The adjuvants Activator 90.RTM, Scoil.RTM,Prime Oil.RTM, Quad 7.RTM, and L-64.11.2.1 were added to water (atconcentration shown in TABLE 9) with nicosulfuron plus rimsulfuron plusclopyralid plus flumetsulam (0.1+0.1+0.9+0.3 oz active ingredient/A) toprepare the final aqueous spray mixture applied at 8.5 gal/A.

[0078] Homogenous, multicomponent adjuvant of present inventionL-64.11.2.1 applied at 1% concentration and at 1.5 pt/A was equally ormore effective than the reference commercial adjuvants, Activator90.RTM, Scoil.RTM, Quad 7.RTM, and Prime Oil.RTM and without enhancingcorn injury. TABLE 9 Yellow foxtail and common cocklebur control 4 WATwith nicosulfuron plus rimsulfuron plus clopyralid plus flumetsulam at0.1 + 0.1 + 0.9 + 0.3 oz/A in corn as influenced by adjuvants, Oakes,ND, 2001. 07/17 Corn Yellow Common Adjuvant Injury foxtail lambsquartersActivator 90.RTM 0.5% 6 66 60 Scoil.RTM 1% 7 80 81 Scoil.RTM 1.5 pt/A 1090 89 Prime Oil.RTM 2 pt/A 9 84 86 Quad 7.RTM 1% 9 90 93 L-64.11.2.1 1%10 93 90 L-64.11.2.1 1.5 pt/A 9 95 95 LSD (0.05) NS 11 9

[0079] Activator 90.RTM is a nonionic surfactant of alkylpolyoxyethyleneethers and free fatty acids from Loveland Industries. Scoil.RTM ismethylated vegetable oil from AGSCO Inc.; Prime Oil.RTM is petroleum oilfrom Agriliance; Quad 7.RTM is basic blend adjuvant from AGSCO Inc.;L-64.11.2.1 is an experimental homogenous adjuvant, which refers topresent invention consisting of methylated canola oil (20%),triethanolamine (10%), mixture of Pluronic L 64.RTM and Pluronic L92.RTM block copolymer nonionic surfactants (6%+6%), both from BASFCorp., mixture of Tergitol 15-S-5.RTM and Tergitol 15-S-9.RTM secondaryalcohol ethoxylate surfactants (8%+16%), both from Union Carbide Corp.,and ammonium nitrate-urea liquid nitrogen (28% N) fertilizer (34%).

[0080] The results of a field test on weed control with nicosulfuronplus rimsulfuron plus atrazine (Basis Gold.RTM) in corn are shown inTABLE 10. The adjuvants Activator 90.RTM, Scoil.RTM, Prime Oil.RTM, Quad7.RTM, and L-64.11.2.1 were added to water (at concentration shown inTABLE 10) with nicosulfuron plus rimsulfuron plus atrazine (0.1+0.1+7.6oz active ingredient/A) to prepare the final aqueous spray mixtureapplied at 8.5 gal/A.

[0081] Homogenous, multicomponent adjuvant of present inventionL-64.11.2.1 applied at 1% concentration and at 1.5 pt/A was equally ormore effective than the reference commercial adjuvants Activator 90.RTM,Scoil.RTM, Quad 7.RTM, and Prime Oil.RTM and without any visible corninjury. TABLE 10 Yellow foxtail, common lambquarters, volunteer flax,and wheat control 6 WAT with nicosulfuron plus rimsulfuron plus atrazineat 0.1 + 0.1 + 7.6 oz/A in corn as influenced by adjuvants, Oakes, ND,2001. 08/31 Common Corn Yellow lambs- Adjuvant Injury foxtail quarterFlax Wheat Activator 90.RTM 0.5% 0 63 90 59 68 Scoil.RTM 1% 0 79 97 7574 Scoil.RTM 1.5 pt/A 0 81 99 78 80 Prime Oil.RTM 2 pt/A 0 75 99 76 75Quad 7.RTM 1% 0 58 90 68 75 L-64.11.2.1 1% 0 83 96 78 78 L-64.11.2.1 1.5pt/A 0 86 97 84 84 LSD (0.05) NS 12 6 9 10

[0082] Activator 90.RTM is a nonionic surfactant of alkylpolyoxyethyleneethers and free fatty acids from Loveland Industries. Scoil.RTM ismethylated vegetable oil from AGSCO Inc.; Prime Oil.RTM is petroleum oilfrom Agriliance; Quad 7 is basic blend adjuvant from AGSCO Inc.;L-64.11.2.1 is an experimental homogenous adjuvant, which refers topresent invention consisting of methylated canola oil (20%),triethanolamine (10%), mixture of Pluronic L 64.RTM and Pluronic L92.RTM block copolymer nonionic surfactants (6%+6%), both from BASFCorp., mixture of Tergitol 15-S-5.RTM and Tergitol 15-S-9.RTM secondaryalcohol ethoxylate surfactants (8%+16%), both from Union Carbide Corp.,and ammonium nitrate-urea liquid nitrogen (28% N) fertilizer (34%).

[0083] Numerous modifications and variations in practice of theinvention are expected to occur to those skilled in the art uponconsideration of the foregoing detailed description of the invention.Consequently, such modifications and variations are intended to beincluded within the scope of the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An adjuvant blend comprising: a nitrogenfertilizer in an amount of from about 30 to about 45 percent by weightof the blend; a pH adjuster in an amount effective for providing analkaline pH of above about 7 to about 10 when formulated in a finalspray composition; a modified vegetable oil; a highhydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) nonionic surfactant having a HLB ofabove about 14; at least two intermediate nonionic surfactants having aHLB of above about 10 to about 14; and a low HLB nonionic surfactanthaving a HLB of about 10 or less.
 2. An adjuvant blend according toclaim 1 wherein the nitrogen fertilizer is selected from the groupconsisting of ammonium nitrate, urea, ammonium chloride, ammoniumnitrate-urea, ammonium sulfate and mixtures thereof.
 3. An adjuvantblend according to claim 1 wherein the pH adjuster is selected from thegroup consisting of ammonium hydroxide, triethanolamine, primary aminoalcohols, and mixtures thereof.
 4. An adjuvant blend according to claim1 wherein the modified vegetable oil is selected from the groupconsisting of methylated, ethylated and butylated seed oils.
 5. Anadjuvant blend according to claim 4 wherein the adjuvant blend containsfrom about 5 to about 80 weight percent modified vegetable oil, based onthe weight of the adjuvant blend.
 6. An adjuvant blend according toclaim 1 wherein the high HLB nonionic surfactant has a HLB of aboveabout 14 to about
 18. 7. An adjuvant blend according to claim 1 whereinthe low HLB nonionic surfactant has a HLB of above about 1 to about 10.8. An adjuvant blend according to claim 1 wherein the high and lownonionic surfactants are block copolymers.
 9. An adjuvant blendaccording to claim 8 wherein the block copolymers are selected from thegroup consisting of copolymers of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide.10. An adjuvant blend according to claim 1 wherein the adjuvant blendcontains from about 1 to about 20 weight percent high HLB nonionicsurfactant, based on the weight of the adjuvant blend.
 11. An adjuvantblend according to claim 1 wherein the adjuvant blend contains fromabout 1 to about 20 weight percent low HLB nonionic surfactant, based onthe weight of the adjuvant blend.
 12. An adjuvant blend according toclaim 1 wherein the adjuvant blend contains from about 3 to about 33weight percent intermediate HLB nonionic surfactant, based on the weightof the adjuvant blend.
 13. A homogenous adjuvant blend for use inherbicidal spray compositions comprising: a nitrogen fertilizer in anamount from about 30 to about 45 percent by weight of the adjuvantblend, wherein the nitrogen fertilizer is selected from the groupconsisting of ammonium nitrate, urea, ammonium chloride, ammoniumnitrate-urea, ammonium sulfate and mixtures thereof; a pH adjuster in anamount effective for providing an alkaline pH of above about 7 to about10 of the final herbicidal spray composition, wherein the pH adjuster isselected from the group consisting of ammonium hydroxide,triethanolamine, primary amino alcohols, and mixtures thereof; amodified vegetable oil selected from the group consisting of methylated,ethylated and butylated seed oils; a high hydrophilic-lipophilic balance(HLB) block copolymer nonionic surfactant having a HLB of above about14; at least two intermediate nonionic surfactants having a HLB of aboveabout 10 to about 14; and a low HLB block copolymer nonionic surfactanthaving a HLB of about 10 or less.
 14. A homogenous adjuvant blendaccording to claim 13 wherein the adjuvant blend contains from about 5to about 80 weight percent modified vegetable oil, based on the weightof the adjuvant blend.
 15. A homogenous adjuvant blend according toclaim 13 wherein the high HLB nonionic surfactant has a HLB of aboveabout 14 to about
 18. 16. A homogenous adjuvant blend according to claim13 wherein the low HLB nonionic surfactant has a HLB of above about 1 toabout
 10. 17. A homogenous adjuvant blend according to claim 13 whereinthe block copolymers are selected from the group consisting ofcopolymers of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide.
 18. A homogenousadjuvant blend according to claim 13 wherein the homogenous adjuvantblend contains from about 1 to about 20 weight percent high HLB nonionicsurfactant, based on the weight of the adjuvant blend.
 19. A homogenousadjuvant blend according to claim 13 wherein the adjuvant blend containsfrom about 1 to about 20 weight percent low HLB nonionic surfactant,based on the weight of the adjuvant blend.
 20. A homogenous adjuvantblend according to claim 13 wherein the adjuvant blend contains fromabout 3 to about 33 weight percent intermediate HLB nonionic surfactant,based on the weight of the adjuvant blend.
 21. A homogenous adjuvantblend comprising: a nitrogen fertilizer in an amount from about 30 toabout 45 percent by weight of the blend; a pH adjuster in an amounteffective for providing an alkaline pH of above about 7 to about 10 whenin a final spray composition; a modified vegetable oil; a highhydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) nonionic surfactant having a HLB ofabove about 14; a low HLB nonionic surfactant having a HLB of about 10or less; and at least two intermediate HLB nonionic surfactants.
 22. Ahomogenous adjuvant blend according to claim 21 wherein the nitrogenfertilizer is selected from the group consisting of ammonium nitrate,urea, ammonium chloride, ammonium nitrate-urea, ammonium sulfate andmixtures thereof.
 23. A homogenous adjuvant blend according to claim 21wherein the pH adjuster is selected from the group consisting ofammonium hydroxide, triethanolamine, primary amino alcohols, andmixtures thereof.
 24. A homogenous adjuvant blend according to claim 21wherein the modified vegetable oil is selected from the group consistingof methylated, ethylated and butylated seed oils.
 25. A homogenousadjuvant blend according to claim 24 wherein the adjuvant blend containsfrom about 5 to about 80 weight percent modified vegetable oil, based onthe weight of the adjuvant blend.
 26. A homogenous adjuvant blendaccording to claim 21 wherein the high HLB nonionic surfactant has a HLBof above about 14 to about
 18. 27. A homogenous adjuvant blend accordingto claim 21 wherein the low HLB nonionic surfactant has a HLB of aboveabout 1 to about
 10. 28. A homogenous adjuvant blend according to claim21 wherein the intermediate HLB nonionic surfactant has a HLB of aboveabout 10 to about
 14. 29. A homogenous adjuvant blend according to claim21 wherein the high and low nonionic surfactants are block copolymers.30. A homogenous adjuvant blend according to claim 29 wherein the blockcopolymers are selected from the group consisting of copolymers ofpropylene oxide and ethylene oxide.
 31. A homogenous adjuvant blendaccording to claim 21 wherein the adjuvant blend contains from about 1to about 20 weight percent high HLB nonionic surfactant, based on theweight of the adjuvant blend.
 32. A homogenous adjuvant blend accordingto claim 21 wherein the adjuvant blend contains from about 1 to about 20weight percent low HLB nonionic surfactant, based on the weight of theadjuvant blend.
 33. A homogenous adjuvant blend according to claim 21wherein the adjuvant blend contains from about 3 to about 33 weightpercent intermediate HLB nonionic surfactant, based on the weight of theadjuvant blend.
 34. A method of controlling weeds which comprisesapplying a postemergence herbicidal spray composition to weeds and/orother undesired vegetation, the herbicidal spray composition comprising:a nitrogen fertilizer in an amount from about 30 to about 45 percent byweight of the adjuvant blend; a pH adjuster in an amount effective forproviding an alkaline pH of above about 7 to about 10 when formulatedthe spray composition; a modified vegetable oil; a highhydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) nonionic surfactant having a HLB ofabove about 14; at least two intermediate nonionic surfactants having aHLB of above about 10 to about 14; and a low HLB nonionic surfactanthaving a HLB of about 10 or less; an effective amount of a postemergenceherbicide; and additional water to make up the final spray solution. 35.A method of controlling weeds according to claim 34 wherein the nitrogenfertilizer is selected from the group consisting of ammonium nitrate,urea, ammonium chloride, ammonium nitrate-urea, ammonium sulfate andmixtures thereof.
 36. A method of controlling weeds according to claim34 wherein the pH adjuster is selected from the group consisting ofammonium hydroxide, triethanolamine, primary amino alcohols, andmixtures thereof.
 37. A method of controlling weeds according to claim34 wherein the modified vegetable oil is selected from the groupconsisting of methylated, ethylated and butylated seed oils.
 38. Amethod of controlling weeds according to claim 34 wherein the adjuvantblend contains from about 5 to about 80 weight percent modifiedvegetable oil, based on the weight of the adjuvant blend.
 39. A methodof controlling weeds according to claim 34 wherein the high HLB nonionicsurfactant has a HLB of above about 14 to about
 18. 40. A method ofcontrolling weeds according to claim 34 wherein the low HLB nonionicsurfactant has a HLB of above about 1 to about
 10. 41. A method ofcontrolling weeds according to claim 34 wherein the high and lownonionic surfactants are block copolymers.
 42. A method of controllingweeds according to claim 41 wherein the block copolymers are selectedfrom the group consisting of copolymers of propylene oxide and ethyleneoxide.
 43. A method of controlling weeds according to claim 34 whereinthe adjuvant blend contains from about 1 to about 20 weight percent highHLB nonionic surfactant, based on the weight of the adjuvant blend. 44.A method of controlling weeds according to claim 34 wherein the adjuvantblend contains from about 1 to about 20 weight percent low HLB nonionicsurfactant, based on the weight of the adjuvant blend.
 45. A method ofcontrolling weeds according to claim 34 wherein the adjuvant blendcontains from about 3 to about 33 weight percent intermediate HLBnonionic surfactant, based on the weight of the adjuvant blend.
 46. Amethod of controlling weeds according to claim 34 wherein the herbicideis selected from the group consisting of nicosulfuron, foramsulfuron,primisulfuron, mesosulfuron, mesotrione, rimsulfuron, imazethapyr,flucarbazone, quizalofop, clethodim, atrazine and mixtures thereof. 47.A method of controlling weeds according to claim 34 wherein theherbicidal spray composition includes from about 0.001 to about 4 weightpercent herbicide, based on the weight of the herbicidal spraycomposition.
 48. A postemergence herbicidal aqueous spray compositioncomprising: a nitrogen fertilizer in an amount of from about 30 to about45 percent by weight of the adjuvant blend; a pH adjuster in an amounteffective for providing an alkaline pH of above about 7 to about 10 whenformulated in the spray composition; a modified vegetable oil; a highhydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) nonionic surfactant having a HLB ofabove about 14; a low HLB nonionic surfactant having a HLB of about 10or less; at least two intermediate nonionic surfactants having a HLB ofabove about 10 to about 14; and an effective amount of a herbicide; andadditional water to make up the spray composition.
 49. A postemergenceherbicidal aqueous spray composition according to claim 48 wherein thenitrogen fertilizer is selected from the group consisting of ammoniumnitrate, urea, ammonium chloride, ammonium nitrate-urea, ammoniumsulfate and mixtures thereof.
 50. A postemergence herbicidal aqueousspray composition according to claim 48 wherein the pH adjuster isselected from the group consisting of ammonium hydroxide,triethanolamine, primary amino alcohols, and mixtures thereof.
 51. Apostemergence herbicidal aqueous spray composition according to claim 48wherein the modified vegetable oil is selected from the group consistingof methylated, ethylated and butylated seed oils.
 52. A postemergenceherbicidal aqueous spray composition according to claim 48 wherein theadjuvant blend contains from about 5 to about 80 weight percent modifiedvegetable oil, based on the weight of the adjuvant blend.
 53. Apostemergence herbicidal aqueous spray composition according to claim 48wherein the high HLB nonionic surfactant has a HLB of above about 14 toabout
 18. 54. A postemergence herbicidal aqueous spray compositionaccording to claim 48 wherein the low HLB nonionic surfactant has a HLBof above about 1 to about
 10. 55. A postemergence herbicidal aqueousspray composition according to claim 48 wherein the high and lownonionic surfactants are block copolymers.
 56. A postemergenceherbicidal aqueous spray composition according to claim 55 wherein theblock copolymers are selected from the group consisting of copolymers ofpropylene oxide and ethylene oxide.
 57. A postemergence herbicidalaqueous spray composition according to claim 48 wherein the adjuvantblend contains from about 1 to about 20 weight percent high HLB nonionicsurfactant, based on the weight of the adjuvant blend.
 58. Apostemergence herbicidal aqueous spray composition according to claim 48wherein the adjuvant blend contains from about 1 to about 20 weightpercent low HLB nonionic surfactant, based on the weight of the adjuvantblend.
 59. A postemergence herbicidal aqueous spray compositionaccording to claim 48 wherein the adjuvant blend contains from about 3to about 33 weight percent intermediate HLB nonionic surfactant, basedon the weight of the adjuvant blend.
 60. A postemergence herbicidalaqueous spray composition according to claim 48 wherein the herbicide isselected from the group consisting of nicosulfuron, foramsulfuron,primisulfuron, mesosulfuron, mesotrione, rimsulfuron, imazethapyr,flucarbazone, quizalofop, clethodim, atrazine and mixtures thereof.